Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology (PsyD)

The Doctor of Psychology in Counseling Psychology (PsyD) program at Holy Family University is committed to a practitioner-scholar training model. The program is evidence-based and practice-informed, utilizing interventions that reflect the foundational values of the discipline of counseling psychology. Our view of clinical training is consistent with the American Psychological Association’s Standards of Accreditation for Health Services Psychology (HSP) and the guidelines for professional psychology training developed by the National Council for Schools and Programs in Psychology (NCSPP).

The program develops trainees who demonstrate a respect for all individuals and have the ability to work from a developmental framework and a strength-based approach. The program develops trainees skilled in working with a variety of individuals with a wide range of issues who can foster psychological development by increasing the client’s ability to problem solve and cope more effectively with daily stressors and demands. The program embraces a mind-body approach that utilizes a prevention perspective, focusing on developing client strengths and understanding the role of the person-environment interaction. The program facilitates the development of students who are able to seek career paths within a variety of contexts working with diverse populations.

Holy Family University is a fully accredited Catholic, private, co-educational university offering undergraduate, graduate, and rapid degree programs. The University’s main campus is in Northeast Philadelphia an additional location in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1954 by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth as a private, not-for-profit, faith-inspired community, Holy Family University propels graduates to purpose-driven, values-centered lives through outstanding academic programs, flexible delivery options, manifold experiential learning opportunities, supportive career development, and deep personal connections.

Despite its growth in numbers of students, its geographic expansion from Philadelphia into surrounding counties, its provision of residence opportunities, and its adoption of alternative pedagogical delivery strategies, the University’s purpose remains essentially unchanged—to offer a high-quality, affordable, personalized, and values-centered education in the firm tradition of Catholic higher education. Additionally, Holy Family University is a dynamic institution responding today in order to provide for tomorrow’s needs, always keeping in mind the practical professional outcomes that are important to its students.

Stemming from our rich tradition of providing a liberal arts education that balances arts and sciences to create purposeful world citizens, we offer an exciting range of degrees and study options. In fact, Holy Family University offers 13 Bachelor of Arts degree programs, one Bachelor of Science degree, and four interdisciplinary degrees. We hold classes at our Philadelphia campus and Newtown site in nearby Bucks County, depending upon your major. At both, our supportive faculty will support you in achieving your dreams.